Free digital programme AllBright Academy is releasing a new 10-week course next month aimed at early-stage or aspiring freelancers.

Come September 9, the new online course for freelancers will be free and open to all women whether or not they are an AllBright member.

It is said to consist of five key modules, including guidance on working in a freelance environment, building marketing strategies, pitching to clients, time management and managing professional reputations.

Anna Jones, co-founder of AllBright, said: “AllBright’s aim is to provide women with the tools and the network they need to succeed whether you’re an executive in a firm or working for yourself.

“During my career, I have hired and worked with many freelancers, and we know that many of our members and community form part of this growing group of women who face similar challenges on a daily basis.

“We’re delighted to be offering a programme specifically designed to meet their needs.”

According to the Office for National Statistics, as of June 2019, the number of self-employed workers in the UK has reached 4.96 million, with women accounting for 1.67 million.

Statistics also show that, over the past decade, the number of freelance women has risen by 63 per cent, with more women becoming their own bosses than ever before.

Alix Fox, sex educator, added: “Freelancing can be lonely. I was used to being an independent, self-employed specialist writer and broadcaster. I went from collaborating with colleagues in an office, to feverishly pitching at my kitchen table, alone.

“It made me so low, but over time, I learned the importance of using resources like AllBright. I now have a network of likeminded women who frequently bounce ideas off one another and support each other wholeheartedly.”